Opportunities Abroad Program Overview

Summary

Study Abroad

Study abroad through another university or organization's program and earn transfer credit at UCSD

Work, Intern or Volunteer Abroad

There are a growing number of options to get meaningful work and service learning experience abroad. See our Work, Intern, or Volunteer Abroad pages.

Some Frequently Selected OAP Programs by Country

How to Apply

1. Explore study abroad programs

UC San Diego students may choose from among hundreds of excellent OAP study abroad programs. Our advisers will assist you in finding the programs that fit your individual needs.

Affiliate Study Abroad Programs

UC San Diego OAP affiliate programs are an excellent place to begin your search. All are members of professional organizations. This means they follow the highest standards for professionalism, academic rigor, health & safety support, and student satisfaction. UCSD students may be eligible for scholarships, program fee reductions or both, depending on the affiliate. These affiliate programs often offer study abroad locations or disciplines that are not available through EAP or Global Seminars. To learn more about OAP affiliate programs, consult the following websites:

AbroadCo
American Institute for Foreign Study (AIFS)
Academic Programs International (API)
AustraLearn
Boston University
Centers for Academic Programs Abroad (CAPA)
Danish Institute for Study Abroad (DIS)
Education Abroad Network
Institute for the International Education of Students (IES)
Institute for Study Abroad at Butler University (IFSA-Butler)
International Studies Abroad (ISA)
Semester at Sea
Study Abroad Italy
SUNY Brockport

Search for Study Abroad Programs

In addition to the UCSD OAP affiliate programs, you may choose from many other well respected study abroad programs. The best way to find the right program for you is to use one or more of the following study abroad search engines. Once you have identified one or a few programs, research them based on course offerings, price, types of housing and meal plans, excursions, health and safety support, program dates and length of stay. Then make an appointment to meet with a Programs Abroad adviser to discuss your plans.

IIEPassport.org

GoAbroad.com

Study abroad.com

Diversity Abroad.com

2. Review the Security Situation in your potential host country

Check out possible destinations before making a commitment or applying to the program. Consult the State Department website for country specific information about security, crime, health & safety, political and cultural issues.

Pay particular attention if the country of interest to you has a State Department travel warning.

If your desired destination is on the list of travel warnings please read our policy on student participation in countries with U.S. State Department Travel Warnings.

3. Attend a First Steps Session

Click here to sign up for a First Steps Session.

4. Pick up Program literature

These can be obtained from the "Extras" section of the Programs Abroad Library or download it from the program sponsor's Website.

5. Meet with a Programs Abroad Adviser

You may meet with a Programs Abroad Advisor either before or after applying to the program.

6. Apply directly to the program sponsor

Your application may ask for signatures from your Programs Abroad advisor. If so, ask us in the appointment. You can usually pick up the signed form in 24 hours. Some OAP providers may require students to obtain a judicial clearance or conduct check as a pre-requisite for admission to a study abroad program. Students should consult their Dean of Students or Resident Dean for this verification. Do not contact Student Judicial Affairs, because they cannot provide this information.

7. Complete OAP Paperwork prior to departure

This packet includes the Confirmation of Intent, Academic Planning Form, Waiver of Liability, Contact Release Information, Health Insurance information, and Transfer Credit Agreement. Depending on the time of year, it will take a few weeks to over a month to complete the paperwork, so plan ahead.

8. Complete financial aid documents

FAFSA financial aid students must also complete a consortium or contractual agreement to apply your financial aid to your study abroad. Remember that state and federal aid can be applied to OAP.

9. Apply for a Scholarship


10. Attend Pre-departure Orientation